Meet Our Amazing Team
We take youth empowerment seriously. So our leaders are drawn from our Council of Elders, teens 14-18 years old, who have been taught to think and anticipate, to plan and run programs and watch out for the needs of younger children, as well as to build, weld, offer first aid and operate computers. Many also receive advanced training, whether in counseling, social work, computers, nursing, construction or electrical engineering.
Look how far they have come!
Nkosi joined Zimkids in 2005 at the age of 9 and has since earned a Diploma in Social Work in 2019 and a BSC Honors Degree in Social Work in 2022. He is also pursuing coursework in Project Planning and Management in 2022. As a vital member of the Zimkids team, Nkosi designs, trains, and oversees day-to-day operations, registers beneficiaries, conducts home visits, and ensures access to mainstream education. In addition, he provides counseling sessions and liaises with school heads, community leaders, and the department of social development. Nkosi’s contributions to Zimkids are invaluable, and he writes monthly reports to keep the team informed.
Sithabisiwe is a dedicated member of the Zimkids community who joined at the age of 12 in 2005. She earned a Counseling Diploma in 2014, which has helped her to conduct home visits for the beneficiaries. Sithabisiwe also mentors girls, helping them to develop important life skills and build their confidence. In addition, she tutors primary level kids, providing them with the academic support they need to succeed. Moreover, she is the leader of a broiler chicken project for both girls and boys, which has been a huge success in the Zimkids community. Sithabisiwe’s dedication to teaching and mentoring, as well as her exceptional organizational skills, make her an invaluable asset to the Zimkids team.
Ngqabutho joined Zimkids in 2005 at the age of 8 and has since obtained a National Certificate in Electrical Power Engineering, with current studies aimed at achieving a Diploma in the same field. Ngqabutho trains in all construction, computer, and peri-agriculture skills, providing age-appropriate activities for beneficiaries and tutoring ordinary level students. He also provides life skills training to teenagers in the community. Ngqabutho’s commitment and dedication to Zimkids’ mission are unparalleled, making him an essential member of the team.
Peter joined Zimkids at age 13 and has received many local arts awards. He teaches welding to both girls and boys, is skilled in construction, and develops and implements all arts programs. Peter’s talent and dedication have helped the children he works with to develop new skills and express themselves creatively.
Mbongeni joined Zimkids at the age of 10 in 2009. He serves as an on-site manager, caretaker, and child care worker, and he coordinates the egg-laying project with Elders aged 14 to 17. Mbongeni also leads the agriculture project. His hard work and dedication have helped Zimkids to create a safe and nurturing environment for the children in their care.
Anele joined Zimkids in 2004 at the age of 8 and is now a National Aids Council Bulawayo Representative and facilitator. He provides overseas medical management and oversight of orphans who are HIV+. Anele also conducts mentoring sessions with the boys and oversees their development. His dedication to his work and his compassion for others have made a significant impact on the lives of the children he works with.
Director
Qinisela joined Zimkids in 2014 at the age of 12 and has since completed a Diploma in Computer Engineering in 2021. He now tutors basic computer hardware and software to both boys and girls. Qinisela also holds a 2D Animation Certificate and tutors the basics and advanced stages of animation, managing and leading animation and content creation projects undertaken by kids. Qinisela’s passion for teaching and sharing knowledge has been instrumental in the growth of Zimkids, and his expertise in computer engineering and animation is highly valued.